1. Their run defense has improved » The Redskins hurt Philadelphia on the ground in the first meeting, rushing for 169 yards as Clinton Portis (11 carries, 55 yards) and Ryan Torain (18 carries, 70 yards) had solid games. But the Eagles have improved since then, in part because they replaced Akeem Jordan with Moise Fokou at strongside linebacker. He plays faster and is more aggressive. The result? Elite backs such as Michael Turner, Frank Gore and Chris Johnson all have been held under 100 yards.
2. Michael Vick equals big plays » When he’s not in the game, the Eagles lack the same sort of explosiveness. Vick averages 8.14 yards a pass attempt, which means he’s throwing downfield a lot. More impressive: zero interceptions in 138 pass attempts with the Eagles. Vick also averages 7.25 yards a run. The problem is if you play two safeties deep, he’ll look to run. If you use one to spy in case he runs, he’ll take advantage with his dangerous wideouts. The Redskins neutralized him for a quarter by playing a cover-2 zone. He did manage 17 yards on three carries. This helps playing behind a line that has been criticized and is susceptible to pressure.
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3. The Eagles have holes in the secondary » Philadelphia will start two backups in the defensive backfield, with CB Dimitri Patterson playing for Ellis Hobbs and free safety Kurt Coleman in for Nate Allen. That could be an issue if the Redskins are able to attack downfield. Coleman, a rookie seventh-round pick, is a good hitter, but playing the pass has never been his strength. Philly also is starting ex-Redskins defensive tackle Antonio Dixon instead of Brodrick Bunkley, reduced to a reserve role because of a major elbow injury.
4. Philly’s D makes things happen » The Eagles have usually played aggressively, and though some of that has toned down the past couple years, they still like to blitz and cause chaos. The result: 24 sacks (tied for fifth in the NFL) and 13 interceptions (tied for third). They’ve caused 18 turnovers, one fewer than Washington. But this is not a powerhouse defense — they’re ranked 20th in scoring defense (22.6 a game) as five teams have scored at least 24 points on them.
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